Metal Braces: Silver Spring Patients' Reliable Orthodontic Treatment

There are many reasons to love metal braces. For one, traditional braces deliver consistent results, which translates to a healthier, more attractive smile. Secondly, traditional metal braces come with some cost savings when compared to other treatment options.

The Many Benefits of Metal Braces

Beyond the resulting esthetics, braces can transform a patient’s life in a number of ways. Here are a few of the top benefits of choosing metal braces:

Metal braces are reliably effective:

Metal braces form the basis of modern orthodontics. By choosing metal braces you can count on achieving great results (even if you may be temporarily embarrassed by their appearance).

Smaller brackets:

Today’s metal braces feature brackets that are smaller and more discreet. This means you can receive effective treatments without as much metal!

Speech improvements:

Patients with crooked teeth or narrow palates are surprised to discover improvements in speech now that their tongues can move more naturally and freely.

Oral health:

Flossing and brushing can be incredibly difficult for those with teeth crowding issues; floss gets caught between teeth, becomes frayed, or simply splits. Areas that cannot be reached by floss or a toothbrush are at a greater risk of developing gingivitis, periodontal disease, and ultimately tooth decay or loss. Realigning the teeth with braces makes it much easier to care for your teeth and gums.

General health:

Many patients are surprised to learn that correcting a malocclusion (misaligned bite) can actually help with weight loss. Studies have shown that individuals with a malocclusion do not chew their food as thoroughly as those with a proper bite alignment. This means more food particles go undigested and are converted into fat.

How Do Braces Work?

Metal braces use stainless steel brackets that are adhered to the surface of the teeth using medical bonding cement. A thin archwire is attached to these brackets. Elastic bands are looped around the brackets to keep the archwire in place. During successive visits with your orthodontist, they will adjust the archwire to change the level of tension. With each adjustment the teeth are further guided into their proper positions.

Why You Might Consider Metal Braces

Metal braces have come a long way from past iterations. For one thing, the metal brackets that give traditional braces their signature look are now smaller. This means metal braces are less noticeable and more comfortable than ever before. Plus, you’ll get to take advantage of the savings. Traditional metal braces are often less expensive than specialty treatments such as ceramic bracesand clear aligner trays.

Care Tips for Your Braces

“What foods can I eat?” “How do I clean my braces?” Read up on essential braces care tips on our Living with Braces page.